Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended the decision to withdraw from international duty following the team's Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City, stating that players are eager to play for their national teams. This follows the announcement of several players withdrawing from international football due to injuries, including England forward Eberechi Eze, Norway midfielder Martin Odegaard, and Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber. Five more Arsenal players also withdrew from international teams due to various health issues. Arteta stated that the team is committed to making the strongest line-up possible to win all competitions.